OVERVIEW
The beluga, or white whale, is one of the smallest species of whale. Their distinctive color and prominent foreheads make them easily identifiable.
Unlike most other whales, the beluga has a very flexible neck that enables it to nod and turn its head in all directions.
Belugas generally live together in small groups known as pods. They are social animals and very vocal communicators. They use a diversified language of clicks, whistles, and clangs. Belugas can also copy a variety of other sounds.
Belugas feed on fish, crustaceans, and worms.
The whale is related to the tusked "unicorn" whale known as the narwhal. The beluga is not related to the sturgeon of the same name, which has been heavily fished for its famous caviar.
SCIENTIFIC NAME
Delphinapterus leucas
FAMILY NAME
Monodontidae
ENDANGERED STATUS
NEAR THREATENED
CLASSIFICATION
Mammal
LIFE SPAN
35 to 50 years
DIET
Carnivore
HABITAT
Ocean
Range
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